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‘Tell us what’s gone on at BPL’ Davis demands answers on board interference charge By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net PROGRESSIVE Liberal Party Leader Philip Davis yesterday called on Works Minister Desmond Bannister to answer “damning” allegations of government interference at the Bahamas Power and Light board. Mr Davis said the charges levelled by former board Chairwoman Darnell Osborne and two former members necessitated an “immediate and robust” response given their professional credibility. He was referring to a press statement penned by Mrs Osborne, Nicola Thompson and Nick Dean,
which rejected Mr Bannister’s narrative on the circumstances that led to the board’s shock dissolution last week. “These are damning allegations,” Mr Davis said, “especially for an administration who continually talk about the Progressive Liberal Party and purported political interferences, and how they will bring transparency and accountability. “They said the statement put forward by a sitting minister is untrue. The board has made a serious allegation that’s being levelled at the political directorate that requires an immediate and robust response. SEE PAGE FIVE
BAHAMAS Power and Light’s board split was sparked by disputes over generation technology for the new, low-cost power plant and executive appointments, Tribune Business can reveal. The row, which led to the former board’s dissolution,
pitted former chairman Darnell Osborne and fellow directors Nicola Thompson and Nick Dean against chief executive Whitney Heastie and ex-vice chairman Patrick Rollins. Tribune Business can disclose that Mrs Osborne was infuriated by Mr Bannister’s decision to appoint Mr Rollins as an executive director. FULL STORY - SEE BUSINESS
RIGHTS Bahamas has criticised recent comments Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis made about eradicating shanty towns, saying “the level of hypocrisy” involved in Dr Minnis’ remarks regarding Haitian ethnic communities is “simply staggering”. On Sunday, Dr Minnis said it would be “unjust and unfair” to allow shanty towns to remain and recommitted his government to the task of clearing those communities. Dr Minnis referred to a national commitment to social justice, adding there is also a moral imperative for the removal of shanty towns as the government is simultaneously engaged in immigration reform. SEE PAGE NINE
PREMIERS’ REJECTION OF HONOUR AVOIDABLE By RASHAD ROLLE Tribune Staff Reporter rrolle@tribunemedia.net
...AND THIS IS WHAT WE HAVE BEEN TOLD By NEIL HARTNELL Tribune Business Editor nhartnell@tribunemedia.net
‘DR MINNIS’ HYPOCRISY IS SIMPLY STAGGERING’
IDA JOINS THE 100 CLUB GOVERNOR General Dame Marguerite Pindling (right) attended the centennial birthday church service for Ida Glinton who recently celebrated her 100th birthday. The church service was held at Pilgrim Baptist Temple, St James Road, on Saturday, August 18. Mrs Glinton (centre) was surrounded by family and friends. Photo: Derek Smith/BIS
THE decision of former Prime Ministers Hubert Ingraham and Perry Christie to reject the government’s national honour award is an “embarrassment” for the Minnis administration, Reverend Sebastian Campbell, chairman of the National Heroes Committee, said yesterday. Mr Ingraham and Mr Christie, according to The Tribune’s sources, recently informed Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling of their rejection of the government’s Order of the Nation award, which is bestowed upon all who have been appointed governor general or prime minister. SEE PAGE SEVEN
DOORS OPEN FOR 1,000 PRE-SCHOOLERS By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net IN an effort for the Bahamas to attain universal pre-school education, Education Minister Jeff Lloyd yesterday said starting this year, and each year thereafter, 1,000 pre-school students will enter the school system. Speaking to educators at the Public School
JEFF LLOYD, Minister of Education, pictured yesterday. Administrators Conclave 2018, Mr Lloyd said this initiative will be through both the public and private sectors.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) President Belinda Wilson said such a programme would be a “challenge”. Mr Lloyd also said scholarship opportunities will be provided for teachers to attain higher degrees, adding teachers are to be given more money or more SEE PAGE SIX
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PAGE 2, Tuesday, August 21, 2018
FNM MARKS 26 YEARS SINCE 1992 ELECTION TRIUMPH
THE FNM held a church service on Sunday to mark the 26th anniversary of the party’s 1992 general election victory. The service was held at Bible Truth Ministries on Cowpen Road, hosted by Pastor Ellison Greenslade, and Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis addressed the audience. Photos: Yontalay Bowe
THE TRIBUNE
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, August 21, 2018, PAGE 3
FIVE FACE COURT OVER IMMIGRATION OFFENCES
By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net
FROM left, Kenny Mackey, Mark White and Damian Walker outside court yesterday.
Three jailed over seizure of marijuana By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Chief Reporter aturnquest@tribunemedia.net A BAHAMIAN man and two Jamaican men were sentenced to three and a half years in prison yesterday for last week’s seizure of 375 pounds of marijuana at a residence on Meadow Street. Two additional people a Jamaican woman and a Bahamian man - were also arraigned before Deputy Chief Magistrate Subusola Swain but pleaded not guilty and were remanded until trial. Bahamian Kenny Mackey, 33, of Meadow Street, while driving was stopped by a Drug Enforcement Unit officer, who searched his vehicle
and person but did not find anything, according to police prosecutor Assistant Superintendent Clifford Daxon. The officers then went to a home on Meadow Street where they spotted a man outside who, on seeing the officers, appeared to run into the home. Mr Daxon said the officers entered the home by force when they got no answer and smelt a strong odour of marijuana. The officers reportedly found 18 crocus sacks and other packages of marijuana. The total seizure was valued at $375,000. Mr Daxon said $1,439 cash - believed to be the proceeds of crime - was also seized from Mackey. Mackey, and Jamaicans
POLICE PROBE BODY FIND POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery of a man’s partially decomposed body found in a cemetery on Sunday night. The Caucasian man’s remains were found shortly after 7pm at St Matthew’s Cemetery on Church and Shirley Streets. Police said
he had injuries to the body. The incident has not yet been classified as police are awaiting autopsy results to determine cause of death. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 502-9991/2 or the Crime Stoppers hotline at 328TIPS (8477).
Mark White, 38, and Damian Walker, 37, pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy to possess dangerous drugs with intent to supply, and possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply. They were sentenced to three years and six months on each count with sentences to run concurrently. Magistrate Swain ordered the Jamaican men to be released and deported following the completion of their sentence. Jamaican Shasoya Stone, 30, and Bahamian Cyrus Gardiner, 48, Meadow Street were given a date for trial of October 9; however, Mr Daxon advised the court he would notify defence on Friday whether the case would be pursued.
A BAHAMIAN and four immigrants were charged in the Freeport Magistrate’s Court on Monday for breach of the Immigration Act. Hugh Walkin, 48, appeared in Court One before Deputy Chief Magistrate Debbye Ferguson on the charge of harbouring an undocumented migrant. It is alleged the accused on Friday, August 17, harboured at his residence a Jamaican man who had overstayed his visitor’s status. Walkin pleaded not guilty to the offence and was granted $1,500 cash bail. The matter was adjourned to December 10. Also appearing was Glendon Luke Wright, Photos: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff 57, of Jamaica, accused of overstaying. He pleaded guilty and was ordered to pay a $2,000 fine or serve one year in prison. He was also ordered deported upon payment of the fine or completion of his sentence. Haitian Thervil James, 31, was charged for illegal landing. He pleaded guilty and was fined $300 or serve one year in prison. He was also ordered deported to Haiti on payment of the fine or completion of the custodial sentence. In a separate matter, two Ecuadorians were also charged with overstaying. Ronmel Patricio Neira Ojeda, 20, and Carmen Beatriz Torres Chacon, 30, pleaded guilty to the charge and were both ordered to CYRUS Gardiner outside court. pay a $2,000 fine or serve one year in prison. The two were also ordered deported on payment of the fine or completion of their custodial sentence.
SHASOYA Stone being led into court.
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THE TRIBUNE
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Bully boy tactics and ‘hogwash’ denials GOVERNMENT service in Western democracies is often coveted by citizens who seek a stable, secure position with a regular pay cheque and a sense of serving the greater good of the nation. Government service is also often reviled and ridiculed by those outside government who are supposed to be the clients of public servants. But there are real satisfactions in public service. The notion of helping to develop and implement policies that will improve lives continues to be a powerful attraction. With seniority and/ or relevant expertise, civil servants can enjoy job satisfaction that may be hard to match in private life. In Washington, Ottawa and major European capitals, high rank and position often require that employees obtain and maintain security clearances. These certifications are granted after background investigations and other checks on a person’s background and associations. As the American government has grown in scope and influence under Democratic and Republican administrations alike since World War II, the importance of security clearances has also grown. Many government employees and contractors treasure them as prerequisites for higher level positions and even for eligibility for employment. As contracting for the American government grows in size and complexity, two key factors have become paramount for job seekers. The first is a security clearance. The second is the technical ability to perform the task for which bidders are sought. Even a casual perusal of available government jobs reveals the significance of the security clearance. In US President Trump’s continuing, escalating war with law enforcement and intelligence officials whose Russia investigation and other pursuits may threaten his tenure, it is not surprising Trump has now resorted to invalidating the security clearance of one of his most influential, persistent critics. Trump’s target is John O Brennan, a career intelligence official who served prominently in the George W Bush administration and then as Assistant to President Barack Obama for Homeland Security and then, from 2013-17 as director of the Central Intelligence Agency. The bully who occupies the White House clearly intends to intimidate the thousands of American
government employees and contractors who may be or become involved in the Robert Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election or other active law enforcement inquiries that touch Trump himself, his family or his allies. The vital importance of security clearances to those working for the American government has doubtless convinced Trump that this is a useful path to follow as he continues to try to sidetrack or decommission these investigations. Brennan, a pugnacious Irishman, isn’t taking Trump’s retaliation quietly. “Trump has clearly become more desperate to protect himself and those close to him, which is why he made the politically motivated decision to revoke my security clearance in an attempt to scare into silence others who might dare to challenge him,” Brennan wrote in The New York Times. Brennan has been nothing if not outspoken in his opposition to Trump’s methods. He has referred to the president’s actions as treasonous. In his article for The Times, Brennan said Trump’s denial of any collusion with Russia to affect the 2016 presidential election is “hogwash”. Given Brennan’s former position at the helm of the CIA, it is especially hard to dismiss his views. He and other prominent intelligence and law enforcement officials have now begun to publicly urge Mueller to wrap up his investigation, no doubt hoping Mueller’s results will compel Trump’s exit or at least a moderation of his behaviour. Others are carefully watching the proceedings at the trial of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort across the river from Washington, DC in Alexandria, Virginia. There are those who continue to believe that a conviction in this case may produce results that could weaken Trump’s position or even hasten his departure from office. Maybe Mueller’s investigation, Manafort’s trial or civil and criminal cases to come will do what the Republican congress has no will or wish to do. Maybe if the Democrats prevail in November, the scandals, corruption, incompetence and pure venality of this administration will cause it to somehow self-destruct. But betting on such an outcome is not a safe bet. The greater likelihood is still that Trump will remain until 2020.
Is it really the People’s Time to beg? EDITOR, The Tribune. I UNDERSTAND our country is in an economic crisis and the said government is trying, in their opinion, to fix and balance the budget. But living in the state we’re in, we see families are struggling more so than ever. On top of this, the increase of value added tax has caused the cost of living to become for some, unaffordable. This is one of the biggest times for families who depend mainly on back-toschool functions as well as the Department of Social Services to assist with uniforms, spectacles among other needs they cannot afford. For the Minister to say they’re cutting funds for uniform assistance and only qualified people will be assisted - and that is not even guaranteed - just baffles me. We are at a point again where the cost of living has become hard for many of Bahamians all across The Bahamas. I believe it is the government’s obligation to assist in the areas that we know are a major issue
LETTERS letters@tribunemedia.net for many. Unemployment which is one of our major issues - is growing daily. Single parents, mothers and fathers are finding it hard to survive. This is no time to cut fundings for something that is a necessity! In my opinion, how about we cut the funds for things that really aren’t benefitting the Bahamian people? Things that we do not really require. We have to find ways to accommodate a range of people. This is important! How is it really ‘our time’ if we’re suffering and in addition there isn’t any assistance for us? Whose time is it really? Urban communities especially need assistance. Grand Bahama, which once was considered the second city - and is now possibly a desert in some people’s opinion - especially needs assistance. There isn’t any economic growth there; job closures all around. How can you cut any form
of assistance when in fact you did nothing for them because Grand Bahama is still suffering? I make no apologies when I say this current government may think they’re doing what’s best for the people, but truthfully it is the people that has the power. My question is, are they really listening to the people? Do they have the regard and thought for the people? Families across the Bahamas are hurting daily, financially, why continue to add to their burden? Is it that they’re supposed to come to the Prime Minister office, meet with him, he “hears” them and does nothing? Is it that the people must go on their knees like dogs and beg? No! The Bahamian people are stronger than that. But I do say to our current leader, if it truly is the Bahamian people’s time, we must do things in the INTEREST of the Bahamian people.
Farewell to James Catalyn Lessons to learn, EDITOR, The Tribune. IT was with great sadness that I heard of the death of my fellow writer and thespian, James Catalyn. I first met James in the mid-sixties at a drama workshop sponsored by the Extra Mural Department of the University of the West Indies. Following the workshop he invited me to join the Bahama Drama Circle, a group founded by Maquella Cartwright Smith. This group had many talented thespians including the late Charles Bowleg, Cedric Scott, Livingstone Colebrooke, Sheila Tracey, the late John Chafe and
Noel Hamilton. the first years of PLP We were later joined by governance. other talented thespians James was one of the like Angela Scott, Pandora driving forces behind the Gibson, John Hester, Calvin group and remained a stalCooper, Greg Lampkin, wart until all the groups Ada Thompson Hepburn, united under the banner of Pat Rahming and Winston the Dundas. Saunders, among others. I performed and wrote The group had many for the Dundas but James memorable perfor- formed his own group and mances, including The entertained hundreds of Amen Corner, Moon on A Bahamians annually with Rainbow Shawl, The Gin- his Laughing At Weself. gerbread Lady, The Blood The Bahamas has lost a Knot and my infamous great cultural icon and his “Vicious Circle”. writing and acting will be We also performed for missed. Rest in Peace good prisoners at HMP and pro- friend. duced several satiric revues like A Touch of Biblical JEANNE THOMPSON satirising Majority rule, and Nassau, Le Noir Supreme satirising August 20, 2018.
MATHEO J. SMITH, SR., Nassau, August 20, 2018
Mr Minister EDITOR, The Tribune. ‘OH Mr Minister’, the BBC programme should be constantly shown on ZNS as it will educate all of us as to the process and procedure of The Westminster system. When Ministers, days in the job start talking gibberish and nothing more than that. Minister of Agriculture seems to have discovered the new world in Andros and Andros can feed the world! Agri production in The
Bahamas can only be successful using hydroponics if you wish to attain high production levels - year round of essential products. Capital intensive. We are a very small operation agrisector using old traditional production methods, in general. The hype from the urban BAMSI Agri-Markets - I think if informationon I have received from people who visit them is correct buyer be horribly aware their prices are higher than the supermarket! Unfortunately, we
have a political practice where the Minister totally controls and micromanagers the Ministry assigned with little or any knowledge of the area of responsibility so you get what you get. The role of a Permanent Secretary over the years has been diluted to the extent they are glorified secretaries sending out Ministerial directives. W THOMPSON Nassau, July 14, 2018.
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, August 21, 2018, PAGE 5
‘Tell us what’s gone on at BPL’ from page one
“It is concerning that the board and the chairperson who is a known professional and a known person with capabilities who has earned the respect of her peers for her integrity and credibility - to bring a charge at the political electorate for it to remain unanswered. “And the fact of the matter is, the personalities that (Mr Bannister) spoke to I’m advised are still employed by the corporation. They dissolved the board but the executive director (Patrick Rollins) that was appointed, is still there? And then its CEO (Whitney Heastie) who had challenges with GB Power and Light is still there and I’m advised they are the source.” In their joint statement, the former BPL board members defended their tenure and said Mrs Osborne was “continually disrespected and undermined”. The statement denied accusations from Mr Bannister that the six-member board was frequently locked in dispute on critical issues leading to its shock dissolution last week, saying his commentary did not address the root of the problem. The former board members said outside forces undermined its functionality and emboldened “certain factions” to “run amok”.
THE BAHAMAS Power and Light head office. However, BPL’s managerial union yesterday said the statement evoked more questions than it answered. Bahamas Electrical Utility Managerial Union (BEUMU) President Anthony Christie said he had hoped for more details on the challenges faced by the former board, but commended members for coming forward to defend their position. “We wanted more teeth in the letter,” Mr Christie said, “specifically what happened, I don’t know
if stuff is confidential or not but it’s still a lot of unknowns. The dust hasn’t settled and there may still be some rumbling. She identified the root cause is government interference, who on the board was working with the government. There has to be some division there. “Who specifically is the root of the problem, so we can understand and fix the problem. So it’s still a lot of questions out there. I’m glad they came forward to voice a position, I’m glad they stood up and I hope more
CASE OF PIT BULL DOG’S DEATH AT A STANDSTILL By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net THE case involving the death of Whitehead, a pregnant pit bull that died as a result of an illegal caesarian performed by an unlicenced “street vet” in Freeport earlier this year, is at a standstill due to the absence of a complaint and lack of sufficient evidence. The matter was brought to the attention of the Veterinary Board at the Department of Agriculture by the Veterinary Medical Association in New Providence, which condemned the incident that happened in May. The tragic story of Whitehead, a four-yearold pit bull terrier, and the subsequent death of her eight puppies, has highlighted the serious concern of illegal medical procedures and vaccinations that are being performed in the Bahamas by people who are unlicenced and unqualified. Veterinarian Dr Godfrey Springer, a member of the Veterinary Board, said the group is the governing body that recommends persons to practice veterinary medicine in the country. He said the case of Whitehead is unclear and there have been no further developments as to who the responsible party is. “We need to have a name of the person, and I can’t go on speculation regarding who did it. So that is why the case is so blurry at this juncture of the matter,” he told The Tribune. Dr Springer said it is considered illegal for people who are not eligible to practice veterinary medicine to do so, as in the case of those connected to the Whitehead incident. However, he stressed in order to bring a case to court one would need to
have evidence of such parties who were engaged in such a matter. According to reports, Whitehead was left by its owner in the care of someone who had contacted a “street vet” who deemed the dog was breached and performed a caesarian without any aneesthesia. The dog died and the eight orphaned puppies died a week later. Dr Springer said a local veterinarian in Freeport had sought the engagement of police, but no official complaint was made. He stated police could not go on anything unless they have some official complaint. “An official complaint means that somebody would have to go and lodge a complaint with the police so that the case would go through the Office of the Commissioner of Police who would direct staff in Freeport to investigate,” he said. “But the challenge came in that we did not seek to get the cooperation of the police in Freeport because whoever did it, these are aggressive guys with pit bulls, and whatever fear there is. So, in order to get a complaint lodged, it means that an official letter would have to be written to my permanent secretary to the permanent secretary of (Ministry of) National Security to get the police in Freeport to seek to address the complaint, and that is where we are with that matter. “So there is no further development in the case because of the nature of the problem in Freeport. But certainly, once we get any information indicating these persons, the police can bring them to court. But if you don’t have evidence of such things, the police cannot go on hearsay. They have to have some evidence to show that ‘John Doe’ or
‘Peter Brown’ did such a procedure.” Despite the standstill in the case, Dr Springer noted the situation is a serious concern for veterinarians in the country. “You still have to send a strong message that people who are not licensed cannot be doing surgical things (procedures) regarding animal welfare without proper protocols. You have to be licensed to practice such things in the Bahamas. How that is to be handled in Grand Bahama or anyplace in the Bahamas, maybe one would need to do a national awareness PR paper to indicate such, but one would have to look within the laws about such persons engage in illegal practices of surgery or medicine.” Dr Springer said the Veterinary Board is the only body that issues a licence to anyone to practice animal medicine legally in The Bahamas. “I am concerned because as a vet I believe people who are not licensed should not conduct those kinds of practices,” he said. He stated such people must be caught and face court action. Dr Chante Wildgoose, of Freeport Veterinary Hospital, whose client was the owner of Whitehead, said the incident was a case of animal cruelty. Dr Springer said everyone has to take responsibility for responsible animal ownership. “Nationally, I believe it is how we address issues of compliance, issues of enforcement, issues of education and information, issues of responsible animal ownership, issues of how people should really handle a pet when it is sick by taking it to a vet and how we follow regulations of the government or the country regarding animal health and animal control,” he said.
Photo: Terrel W Carey/Tribune Staff comes out. In transparency, put it on the table.” Mr Christie continued: “We want to keep the light on by all means, do it safely, be reliable, and have the cheapest cost. That’s the main mandate from the company to the workers and we have to have good leadership. We don’t want to have the same thing happen again.” The Tribune reached out to Mr Bannister, who said he has reserved comment until today’s Cabinet briefing. Yesterday, Mr Davis
said: “(Bannister) He’s the minister responsible for the corporation, either he should respond or the prime minister, somebody has to respond. If anybody calls me out like that I would respond, or otherwise silence will tell me that she is right. Even though I’m more inclined to believe her. “The chairperson, Mrs Osborne is a known quantity, and her integrity, competence, and credibility in her professional life has never been questioned. I’m satisfied that she would
not allow politics to in any way interfere with her commitment to the good principles that embrace integrity, credibility, and her competence. “Even though I’d heard about interferences,” he continued, “I was unable to confirm otherwise, and that is what was informing my view of the ability of board to perform. Now that I have direct evidence about it, and it emboldens my view that the new board would either have its challenges or just kowtow to the political electorate.”
Memorial Service For
James Julius Catalyn, O.B.E., 78 of lamp post #8 Bar 20 Corner will be held on Thursday, August 23rd, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at Christ Church Cathedral, George Street. Officiating will be Dean Patrick Adderley and Fr. Colin Humes. Cremation has taken place and a private interment will be held at a later date. Left to cherish his memories are his son: Randon Scott Catalyn; grandchildren: Blayre Catalyn, Cayden Catalyn, Cai-Lily Catalyn, Brittany Smith, Brielle Minnis; brother: Peter Catalano II; nieces and spouses: Claudia & Norman Seymour, Judith Edwards, Ann Albury, Gina Catalano & Anthony Pieri; nephews & spouses: Barrington & Annick Brennen, Derek & Tracy Catalano, Kirk & Maureen Catalano, David & Monique Catalano; grand-nieces & spouses: Vernessa & Ansel Rahming, Keturah & Keith Bryant, Christina & Devaughn Rahming, Marguerite & Leslie Samuel, Jamie Catalano, Isabella & David Thompson, Olivia Pieri, Karissa Catalano; grand-nephews & spouses: Gerard & Dana Brennen, Donovan Edwards, Jonathan & Jackie Edwards, Adam Edwards, Keith & Opal Albury, Alden & Georgina Albury, Brendon & Jennifer Albury, Christopher & Gayle Catalano; Carlito, Skye, & Sabien Catalano, Deangelo & Raven Catalano; great grand-nieces & nephews: Ane, Aneisha & Lawrence Rahming; Keith, Dauntez & Ava Bryan; Malachi & Alexander Brennen; Noah & Odelia Samuel; Kady, Zoe & Kaleb Albury; Keith Christian Albury & Aaliyah Albury, & Penny Edwards; Other survivors include: Louis W. A. Hanchell, Helena Dorsett, Camille Cartwright, Donrica Burrows, Inez Major and family of Roses, Long Island; Karen Catalyn, Grace Sherman, siblings & families, Maria & Mario Knowles, Eleanor & Robert Elliott, Sister Clare Rolle, Sister Benedict Pratt, Cyprianna Fleischer, Lowell Mortimer, Edward Williams & family, Julia Burnside, Cyprianna & Sean McWeeney, Basil & Cheryl Albury, Dean Patrick & Astrid Adderley, Alice Stuart, Elizabeth “Betty” Cole, Lawson Mapp of Bermuda, Jerona & Byron Babb of Englewood New Jersey, the descendants of Lady Caroline Butler, Margaret Smith-Brown & family, Albertha Gainza, Loretta Algreen & family, Blanche & Melbourne Cartwright, Lady Zoe Maynard & family, Patricia Jervis & family, Linda Aranha, Celeste Lockhart, Patrice McDonald, Eileen Mabon, Janeen & Charles McCartney, Ena & Norman (Campbell) Fox, Sony Jean-Jacques, Valentine Maura, Jerome Miller, Lionel Symonett, Mabel & Keith Mason, Shirley Braynen, Barbara Usher, Weslie Thompson, Danny Wilson & family, Ruth Francis & family, Paula Crawley & family, Florrie Cartwright & family, The Percentie Family of Harbour Island, Elva Collie Tynes & family, Helen Dean & family, Ivan Collie, James Catalyn & Friends Theatrical Group, Cell D of Christ Church Cathedral, the Community of St. Benedict Monastery, The Samaritan Ministers & The Samaritan Drop-In Group, The HIV/AIDS Resource Committee, the Major & Dean Clans of Roses, Long Island, The AFTER group, The Pondites & the PLP Stalwart Council. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the James Catalyn Scotia Bank account 11791-18. Funds will be distributed between the Samaritan Ministry and the AIDS Foundation.
PAGE 6, Tuesday, August 21, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
No student turned away because of background By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net EDUCATION Minister Jeff Lloyd yesterday reiterated that it is against policy and prohibited by law for educators to deny students’ entry into schools based on their ethnic background or nationality. He added he had no “proof” this was occurring, but had heard some rumours. Mr Lloyd made these comments while delivering remarks at the Public School Administrators Conclave 2018, held at the Melia resort. “Do you know the Education Act? You should know it like the back of
your hand,” Mr Lloyd said. “If you do, you wouldn’t in some instances, as I am told, I have no proof of this until they bring it. They keep saying it’s so, I’d like to see it. “But you have no right to deny anybody entrance, admission into our school system based on any status of your mind. It’s not the law. It’s not our policy.” Mr Lloyd said the requirements for entry include identifiers such as an address and information about parents or guardians— not citizenship. “You’re required to know who they are — so they got to bring some documentation. You’re required to know where they live. And you’re required to know
who their parents are. That’s that. And whether they come from this ethnic or national group, it’s not your requirement and your responsibility.” Last week, human rights group Rights Bahamas (RB) alleged “certain public schools” continued to demand proof of status from students seeking to register. In September 2017, Immigration Minister Brent Symonette said no child should be denied education because of their status or due to an “apparent immigration issue”. He indicated resources have been allocated in his ministry to handle all applications in the process of equipping school age
children with the adequate permits needed to enrol and attend school. “Principals should admit these students to school so that they can maintain their education,” he told The Tribune on September 24. “If there is a difficulty getting a belonger’s permit or whatever permit it is that they need, the administrators should email me so that we can regularise those persons’ status, so that they can attend school. “But children should not be denied access to education because of an apparent immigration issue,” Mr Symonette added. “We are making sure that persons who apply, receive the appropriate belonger’s permit so that they can
attend school. “There is a department that deals with this issue specifically. I am being made to believe that we are doing a very good job at it, but if persons have slipped through the cracks, we urge them to contact the Immigration Department and/or myself.” In 2015, while out of office, Mr Symonette warned that making it harder for children of immigrants to get an education could create a slippery slope that results in a myriad of long-term social problems for Bahamians. He was appointed minister of immigration after the 2017 general election, a post he held in the previous Ingraham administration.
JEFF LLOYD, Minister of Education, yesterday.
DOORS OPEN FOR 1,000 PRE-SCHOOLERS from page one
benefits, and said a law will be implemented for school curricula to be revised every five years. Regarding the teachers’ pay, Mrs Wilson called for less rhetoric and more action, and also expressed concern on whether schools will be ready in time for the fall term. “This year we are going to add to our rolls 1,000 preschool students – 1,000,” Mr Lloyd said. He approximated that currently, 6,000 to 7,000 three-year-olds are not receiving proper preschool education, which he deemed “dangerous” for a country. Mr Lloyd said his
ministry will partner with the private sector for this endeavour. “And this 1,000 is going to be every year added, from this year on. Until we get to the place of universal pre-school education.” Regarding these comments, Mrs Wilson said: “I wait to see where these students will go, where are the teachers that are going to be provided for those pre-schoolers. “So I think that is going to be a challenge but I await the information as to how that will happen.” The BUT president made these remarks as she addressed questions about the preparedness of schools for September. Regarding Oakes Field Primary, which has been
the site of renovations, Mrs Wilson said: “The contractors are saying that it will be ready in time for school reopening. They would have to make me a believer because it seems like there is a lot of work to be completed.” As for AF Adderley, she said all the classrooms are ready, but some air-conditioning units must still be installed and there is some carpentry work to be completed. “So I’m not certain as to whether schools will be ready,” she said. However, Mrs Wilson said the “true litmus test” will be when the teachers and students have returned. During his remarks, Mr Lloyd also promised that scholarship money will be
Funeral Service For Joan Elizabeth Rolle, 61 of #9 Turnquest Alley will be held on Thursday, August 23rd, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, Robinson and Claridge Roads. Officiating will be Father Jay Cartwright assisted by Deacon D’Arcy Rahming. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Gardens, Soldier Road. Fond and loving memories will forever linger in the hearts of her HUSBAND: Leroy Rolle; MOTHER: Reorien Rolle; BROTHERS: Commodore Davy Rolle RBDF (Retired), Dr. Christopher Basden, Clarke Rolle and Richard Bowe; SISTERS: Erma Roberts, Wendy Craigg, Yvette Thompson and Rachael Williams; BROTHERS-IN-LAW: Anthony Craigg and Derek Thompson, Rev. Dr. Charles Crestwell (Winniemae), Anthony, Ted (Barbara), Gilbert (Tonia), Dwayne (Ann Marie) and Stanley Rolle; SISTERS-IN-LAW: Detmar Rolle of New York, Celestine and Stephanie Rolle; NEPHEWS: Tristin Roberts, Brandon Basden, Andalino Sands (Wendy), Blaze and Jeremy Williams and Noah Rolle; NEICES: Dorea, Dr. Davone and Nagee, Monet, Tambrind, Tonya, Trudamae, Ginia, Jennifer, Tachan & Tachaz, Tasfay, Kierra and Tedistine Rolle, Tanya Roberts, Brittany Basden, Dereka and Shavette Thompson and Nicole Seymour; UNCLES: Lorne B. Smith Sr., Ortland H. Jr., Pastor Prince O. (Donella), Kirkland ‘KB’, William Duke (Jennifer), Charles and Reortland Bodie; AUNTS: Venus Ryan, Nancy Rigby, Althea Stewart (Sherwin), Sylvia Mitchell, Natalie Bodie, Beautis Morales, Glorina Jackson and Rose Stubbs; A HOST OF RELATIVES and FRIENDS including: Shadrach Morris (Sherry), Yvena Brown (Michael), Kwame (Vernica) and Kwesi (Tennile) Ryan, Lorne B. Jr., Chester and Scott Smith, Anastasia Sargent, Henrietta Gilbert (Keith), Paula Evans, Maxine, Barabara and Andrew Curry, Carolyn Ford of New Jersey, Pedro, Roderick and Edward Simms of Miami, Ralph & William Frith, Rudy and Tyrone Stuart, Emmeline & Bertie Murray, Catherine Tucker, Ivan, Leo & William Stewart of Miami, Florida, Johnny Duncombe, Madge and Deloris Simms, Ralph and William Frith, the family of the late Leviticus & Remilda Rolle, the family of the late Gloria Rolle of Steventon, Exuma, the family of the late Eglon Rolle of Deerfield Beach, Florida, the family of the late Vivian Rolle of Niagara Falls, New York, the Rolle, Curtis, Green, Wright, Johnson and McPhee families of Peats & Grants, Mangrove Cay, Andros, the Smith, Clarke, Curry, Minns, Nixon and Rolle families of Roker’s Point, Harts and Steventon, Exuma, Cleola Mackey, Karen, Edward and Franklyn Rigby, Eulease Beneby, Francella Roberts, Kirklyn Barr, Miriam Curtis, Maxine Rolle, Pastor Frankie Scott & family, the family of Oswald & Estella Pinder, Albertha Hall, the Seville Avenue, South Beach family, the Meeres family of Turnquest Alley, Dr. Drexel Williams, the Department of Rehabilitative /Welfare Services, the Dialysis Unit of the Princess Margaret Hospital, the communities of Holy Family & Our Lady of Souls Roman Catholic Churches. Viewing will be held in the Celestial Suite at Restview Memorial Mortuary and Crematorium Ltd., Robinson and Soldier Roads on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and at the church on Thursday from 8:30 a.m. until service time.
made available for educators to attain master’s degrees and PhDs. Regarding teachers’ pay, he said: “I know we need to make more money. We do, absolutely. And if not more money, more benefits. “If we want the best in education, we’ve got to put our money where our mouths are. “Now I don’t expect us to get there overnight…but we must get there. And so we must do so incrementally. “ In response to this, Mrs Wilson discussed the issue of monies owned to teacher. “My major challenge and problem has been over the years, teachers getting their confirmation, their back pay, reassessment, reclassification, so I’m hoping that this year the four hundred plus teachers that are owed about $3m are paid in this fiscal period. “So we want our teachers paid and really, I’m really tired of the rhetoric. I want to see action, I want to see execution.” Mrs Wilson said this will lead to less conflict. The BUT president also criticised government school tours that are done without the presence of union officials, saying this violates the parties’
agreement. On August 11, Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and Mr Lloyd toured schools and said only one public school, the Eva Hilton Primary, may not be ready on opening day next month. The fact that the union was not invited and had to watch the tour on television is one of the issues that creates conflict, she said. “And so that is where conflict begins,” she continued. “What we are saying is if you say that we are partners, if you say we’re working together, if our agreement says you should invite us on an official tour, then we expect to be invited so that when you are speaking with the contractors, when we have to make the alternate arrangements or we have to look at alternative sites, the union will be a part and parcel of that. “That saves grief and stress. But when you go and you do your tour then you go on television and you pontificate then the union has to react,” she said. During yesterday’s address, Mr Lloyd also called for curricula to be revised more frequently. “We don’t have a curriculum that is responsible and adaptable enough to meet
the needs of a 21st century Bahamian,” he said. “We don’t have any standard revision policy. We’re going to put in law that the curriculum must be revised every five years.” He added curricula will be localised and said more technical and vocational subjects should be taught in schools. “I believe the better way for us to do that is to make a school a technical vocational school. One in the east, one in the west. That’s where we’re going.” Regarding technology in schools, Mrs Lloyd said in the entire school system, every school is to be a smart school, and said all students in the pre- and primary schools will receive tablets. “One hundred and seventy-two schools (are) going to have their internet capabilities by fibre optic and their Wi-Fi. Those tablets will have the lessons on them in pre- and primary schools.” He added these devices will feature ways to control programming. Mr Lloyd also promised that all primary school teachers, teachers’ aides and all district superintendents and members of the senior level of administration complexes will receive laptops this year.
ALIV TEAMS UP WITH GOVT TO PROMOTE FARMING By FARRAH JOHNSON fjohnson@tribunemedia.net
MINISTER of Agriculture and Marine Resources Michael Pintard yesterday unveiled a joint project with Aliv and the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) to assist in the development and promotion of self-sufficient farming in the country. At a press conference, Mr Pintard, Chief Aliv Officer Damian Blackburn and BAMSI CEO Alaasis Braynen shared their ‘Backyard Farming Bahamas’ initiative. The agricultural project is part of the government’s efforts to decrease the country’s heavy reliance on food imports. Stating they are dedicated to “pursuing the objective of food security” in the country, Mr Pintard said the ministry has created a number of strategies to help accomplish this goal. One of these strategies is backyard farming, and the minister said he believes the practice can be “embraced by every demographic”. “We are committed to reducing imports of a number of critical fruits and vegetables, as well as livestock, because we believe that we have the capacity to increasingly produce those items consumed by Bahamians, and the more
than six million visitors who come to The Bahamas,” he said. He added that backyard farming can also help families grow healthy foods with no artificial additives, as well as provide “additional income” to those who choose to “distribute their products”. Through providing financial and technical support, Aliv will assist with getting the pilot projects off the ground. Speaking on behalf of BAMSI, Mr Braynen explained the institute was “privileged and honoured” to partner with the telephone company because “local production is just not on a commercial basis”. “They have taken on the mantle of establishing, encouraging and being a catalyst for backyard gardening. While it is a limited effort at this time, it is a very important,” the CEO stated. With the help of Aliv, the programme has already launched in Long Island. “The aim of this project is to create sustainable and cost effective self-reliant backyard farms for the underprivileged and everyone living in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas,” Mr Blackburn explained. “Backyard farming will alleviate the suffering of the poor in our country, it will develop a new mindset of self-reliance in people in
the Bahamas, it will foster a healthy lifestyle and improve the health of our nation, (and) it will open the floor to teach people how to live (in a self-reliant way),” he added. All of the participants have received a starter kit, which includes one hundred and twenty seedlings, gloves, a spade, a water hose and a cutlass. Aliv will also be responsible for promoting the national project and making information on backyard farming easily accessible to the public online. “While this initiative with Aliv begins in Long Island, we fully expect that Cat Island and Exuma will quickly follow and we invite other corporate citizens to be a part of this transformative programme where we believe Bahamians will eat healthier foods,” the minister stated. Mr Pintard added the ministry also plans to “relaunch and expand” an already existing programme to help emphasise the importance of self-sufficient farming in local schools. Encouraging every citizen to “join the movement” he stated: “This is not a programme where others come from the outside and set up a backyard garden and continue to service it. “The expectation is that the homeowner and residents will be the lead practitioners outside of this...”
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, August 21, 2018, PAGE 7
Premiers’ rejection of honour avoidable from page one The former leaders were among 38 people selected to be awarded the national honours this year in accordance with the National Honours Act, the first group of honourees selected. Neither man has spoken publicly about his decision. Rev Campbell, a strong proponent of the national honours system, said he is disappointed by the decision of Mr Ingraham and Mr Christie but added the Minnis administration should have asked them if they wanted the award before announcing them as recipients earlier this summer. “They should’ve gotten their permission before they went public with it,” he said. “In my case they called me and got my permission and got it in writing before they went with it. “The assumption is that once you are a prime minister or governor general it is automatic that you will get the award and that’s an unfortunate assumption because anyone has a right to refuse. Remember Arthur Hanna (former governor general) refused the knighthood? It’s not automatic. This is a lesson that the government will have to learn from.” As for the decision of the former leaders, Rev Campbell said: “That seems to be a personal matter but those guys, Ingraham and Christie, that’s their business and I don’t want to speculate on why they did it. I’m disappointed, but I don’t want to sit as their
FORMER Prime Minister Perry Christie pictured with Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis previously, as well as Deputy Prime Minister Peter Turnquest and former deputy Philip Davis. Photo: Shawn Hanna/Tribune Staff judge. I thought it would have been a good thing for them to accept it. I would invite them to say why they won’t accept it publicly at this time. That might help further the system even more. Ingraham was in agreement with the system. He brought the first legislation. Christie came behind, polished it up and enacted the act. They all wanted it but maybe the time is not right for them to accept the award.” Rev Campbell said he doesn’t believe the actions
of Mr Ingraham and Mr Christie will damage the prestige of the award, saying if anything, it has given the system valuable publicity. “The colonial awards are what needs to be abolished,” he said. “Its continued existence does something to the integrity of our national honour system but they not accepting the awards is a challenge more than a controversy.” Speaking of the importance of the honour system,
COURT REJECTS APPEAL BID OVER DRIVE-BY SHOOTING CONVICTION By RICARDO WELLS Tribune Staff Reporter rwells@tribunemedia.net
THE Court of Appeal has dismissed a man’s appeal to have his conviction and sentencing overturned on the grounds that he had no case to answer for his involvement in a 2010 murder. Appellate Justices Sir Hartman Longley, president, Stella Crane-Scott, and Sir Michael Barnett dismissed Denard Davis’ appeal concerning the driveby shooting death of Sheria Curry in the area of Fox Hill. According to the judgment, Curry and Shanko Smith were outside in their yard when a Hyundai SUV drove up and shots were fired. Curry was killed and Mr Smith was injured. Witnesses to the tragedy identified the shooters, but no identification was made of the driver. The court’s ruling, which was posted to its website on Wednesday, contended that by his own account in a statement to police, the appellant named himself as the driver of the vehicle – stating that he did not know what his coaccused were planning. He was charged with two others for the murder and attempted murder. Davis, through his attorney Murrio Ducille, had maintained, among other things, that the trial judge had erred in law when he ruled that the appellant had a case to answer without giving a reason for his decision. Davis had made the argument on the grounds that the prosecution led no evidence to suggest he intentionally acted with the others as it related to the drive-by shooting. However, the appellate judges indicated the appellant’s argument had an “air of unreality,” citing, “inasmuch as the appellant admitted that he was the driver of the car.” “The evidence of the eyewitnesses regarding the movements of the car, if
believed, was more than sufficient to enable a jury to find that the appellant was acting in concert with his passengers to effect the shooting,” the ruling noted. “The eyewitnesses testified as to how the car was driving slowly as it approached the yard and the shots were fired from the car and the car stopped and a second round of shots were fired.” The appellate judges highlighted segments of at least four witness statements, all of which affirmed the driver in the incident slowed down in an effort to aid the shooter. Section eight of the Court of Appeal’s ruling quoted one witness as saying: “A grey Jeep came heading west on Step Street. When it came to a sudden stop, and the passenger … slightly screw down his window and proceeded three shots headed in my direction. And then the Jeep drove up about a little more and stopped right there.” That witness said he saw the back passenger discharge about ten shots in the direction of a person in the yard standing near to a coconut tree. In section nine, another witness is quoted as saying: “The Jeep just ride pass me and the mason slow and gone over the speed bump and fled up towards Fox Hill Road way… and as me and the mason walk off, almost to the corner to get home, the Jeep was right back, heading back to Step Street… I didn’t pay it no mind...I just started hearing gunshots; plenty, like ‘pap, pap, pap’…after when my people move, I saw the Jeep. Like, started to like drive again and just stop. And the fire cracker noise start again.” Referring to these statements, the appellate judges asserted the trial judge’s decision not to provide his reasoning didn’t prevent the court from looking at the evidence at the close of the prosecution’s case and determining whether the trial judge was wrong to refuse
the no case submission on behalf of the appellant. The ruling stated: “We agree with counsel for the appellant that his mere presence in the car may not have been sufficient to prove that the appellant was acting in concert with the shooters. But the appellant was not simply present in the car. He was the driver of the car. It was he who (if the eyewitnesses were to be believed) drove the car slow enough to enable the passengers to pull down the windows and make the shots and it was he who stopped the car to enable a second round of shots to be made. That is more than mere presence in the car.” The appellate judges added: “In our judgment the trial judge correctly rejected the no-case-toanswer submission and therefore that ground is without merit.” The remaining grounds on which the appeal was made include claims the trial judge erred in law when he failed to consider that murder in the Bahamas is an offence which requires specific intent; the verdict was unreasonable having regard to the evidence and unsafe in all the circumstances of the case. The ruling noted: “The remaining grounds can be treated together just as the appellant treated them in his submissions.” “In their submissions, this ground was in effect the first ground that the evidence was insufficient to require the appellant to present a defence on the basis of the test in (R v Galbraith [1981] 1 WLR1039). “We have dealt with that earlier. In our view the evidence against the appellant was compelling. The directions given by the judge had no material error. The jury was entitled to convict. In our view any other verdict would have been perverse. “For these reasons, we dismissed the appeal and affirmed the convictions and sentences.”
Rev Campbell said: “We are trying to carve out our own local Bahamian identity and we must look at the road we have trod; Majority Rule is one plank in that, independence is another plank in that and you can’t continue to say you are independent when you are depending on a foreign imperial government to honour your people.” Press Secretary Anthony Newbold said yesterday that Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis has “no comment” on the matter.
FORMER Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham.
PAGE 8, Tuesday, August 21, 2018
THE TRIBUNE
THE GRAND LUCAYAN RESORT
Two Huberts with different visions T
HE disputed future of the Grand Lucaya Hotel complex is more than a business debate. It could well mark the opening political shot for control of the FNM. Incumbent Prime Minster Hubert Minnis and predecessor Hubert Ingraham have each visibly tied his flag to a radically different solution for the hotel’s continued viability - and the future of Grand Bahama. Grand Lucaya Hotel is no ordinary commercial venture—it symbolises Grand Bahama’s success or failure as a tourist destination. Actually three linked hotels (two closed and Lighthouse Point struggling), it provides the back-bone of the island’s guest room supply. Although the Freeport Zone enjoys a successful industrial segment, a dynamic tourist industry remains essential for economic growth, affecting cruise ships, airlift, transportation and real estate. Prime Minister Minnis has now formally announced his government will “buy” Grand Lucaya. Both he and Tourism Minister D’Aguilar make no bones about loathing this decision since they agree Government should not be in the hotel business. It was “the best of bad choices”, necessary to avoid closure of Lighthouse Point, which would not only
throw 400 hotel workers on the dole but destroy most demand for Port Lucaya, the bustling complex of restaurants, bars, music and retail shops oriented towards both visitors and locals. The one remaining hotel, privately-owned boutique Pelican Bay, operates smoothly, but cannot by itself support a a thriving Port Lucaya. Mr D’Aguilar fears a repeat of the Royal Oasis catastrophe, when that once premier hotel closed from hurricane damage in 2004 and never reopened, dragging down the related casino and the International Bazaar, the once colourful shopping district, now a ghost town blighting central Freeport. Government has been dealing with two uncooperative parties. Hutchison Whampoa, dominant over much of Freeport, never showed any enthusiasm for the business of its hotel subsidiary. Instead of upgrades and maintenance, it has focused solely on the negative step of selling Grand Lucaya for a non-negotiable $65m. The only potential buyer was
Canada’s Paul Wynn, who after months of expressed interest, walked away from his non-binding Heads of Agreement, preferring to set up on Nassau’s Cable Beach, leaving Dr Minnis as the abandoned bride at the altar. Dr Minnis’ firm-jawed decision to buy Lucaya has one major flaw: nobody knows how it will be done. He admitted there is no timeline, merely that the public will be told all “upon closure”. Bluntly, that means he has not the foggiest plan what the next steps may be. “Closure” could be months or years down the road. One scenario might go like this: Government provides enough current cash to keep Lighthouse Point open on a shoe-string basis. It makes a $25m cash down - payment (available from the budget) to Hutchison, who grants a purchase-money mortgage loan for the balance. It then must find a reputable, experienced hotel company prepared to lease or manage the operation — or even buy it outright. On the strength of that name, it
borrows the minimum $50m needed to restore the hospitality group to presentable shape for modern tourism. Simultaneously, it negotiates with airlines and travel agencies to assure enough tourism supply for this questionable destination. Clearly, these steps will demand financial and business expertise of the highest order and cannot be accomplished overnight. Meanwhile, the Lucaya area will stagnate and Grand Bahama’s many other problems will be on the back burner. It’s not surprising Dr Minnis’ decision has met sharp criticism. It certainly opened the door for Mr Ingraham to veto the hotel purchase and propose a far more ambitious strategy for growth, one that would revolutionise how Freeport and Grand Bahama are governed. His manifesto calls for Government to buy out the interests of the St George and Hayward families in the Grand Bahama Port Authority (GBPA) and all their other holdings like DevCo and the Harbour and Airport Companies, acting jointly with a financially capable strategic partner and Bahamian investors. In effect, the GBPA and the Hawksbill Creek Agreement would vanish. Government and its private partners would establish a new entity “heavily managed and directed by private experts”.
Since the death of business leader Edward St George in 2004, the GBPA has floundered, and Mr Ingraham argues that present management by the two families’ heirs, though well-meaning, is simply incapable of generating the new investments needed for economic resurrection. “Grand Bahama needs a reset,” he summarises. Much remains to be filled out in Mr Ingraham’s strategy. Government itself certainly does not have the funds to compel a buyout from the reluctant St George and Hayward families, as Hubert knows. But he seems confident of finding the “financially capable strategic partner” to bankroll the deal. Is he already talking with one? What incentives would it demand? How would it coordinate with Government objectives? Where would the new Bahamian investors fit? Holding no Government position, as an independent, well-connected lawyer with a cadre of willing advisors, Mr Ingraham is free to explore all possibilities. If he can produce a viable scheme to re-energise Grand Bahama, the present administration will have no choice but to listen. Enjoying a higher level of personal popularity than the often “verbally disadvantaged” Prime Minister still suffering from his Oban missteps, Papa Ingraham may find himself once again a major political figure.
boardwalk towards visible reality and is undertaking other initiatives. But Mr Fields admits DNP suffers the lack of any over-all development plan, whether created by Government or by some private (probably foreign) investor group. His words coincided with Tourism Minister D’Aguilar’s oft-repeated press laments about the miserable condition of the Prince George Dock reception area and the unappealing tourist amenities offered locally. These contribute to 80 percent of Nassau cruise passengers staying on board, and another fraction taking an immediate taxi to Atlantis, with minimal economic benefit to our capital city. He refers to a Tourism Port being planned as a public-private partnership, designed to have a major impact on local tourism. To this observer, a principal source of funds for such an undertaking can only be the cruise lines themselves. Yes, they already pay port fees to dock here and buy a few local supplies, but they must be encouraged to make a capital investment. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney, Holland-American, Regent, Celebrity, MSC and any others should be brought together to make proportional contributions to a vastly improved dock layout and a attractive reception area including Rawson Square and Woodes Rogers Walk. One feature might be electric minibuses shuttling from the ships themselves to several downtown unloading points. The Tourism Ministry could use a combination carrot and stick policy to Recent conversations persuade cruise lines to with Ed Fields, the ener- cooperate. Reductions in getic leader of Downtown port fees could be offered; Partnership (DNP) lead coupled with a refusal of any to better understanding of new or expanded Family the challenges faced by Island beach mini-ports. In that private sector body in effect, the cruise lines must its continuing campaign to become true partners in improve the entire central Nassau itself, instead of just Nassau, in particular to earning from passengers rejuvenate Bay Street east who like the ride and then of East Street. stare down from the upper In its role as catalyst and decks. planner, DNP has no capital The creation of a radinor approval power of its cally new Tourist Port own. Every major project would fit hand in glove with demands funding from the Ed Fields’ long-range ambiprivate sector and the long tions for the DNP. The port process of permit-seeking area and the rest of downfrom government depart- town, even the Zombie ments. DNP is working Zone from East Street, can hard to move the privately only rise together, not funded harbour-front separately.
DOWNTOWN AND DOCKS MUST WORK TOGETHER
IS the solution to the Downtown conundrum for cruise lines to offer more?
Photo: Stephen Hunt/Tribune Staff
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, August 21, 2018, PAGE 9
BNT: Poaching ‘greatest threat to seafood resources of nation’ By MORGAN ADDERLEY Tribune Staff Reporter madderley@tribunemedia.net THE Bahamas National Trust has described poaching by commercial fishermen from the Dominican Republic as “the greatest single threat to Bahamian seafood resources”. The BNT said this was based on a report produced for the Bahamas Lobster Fisheries Improvement project by Dr Kathleen Sullivan-Sealey of the University of Miami. According to a BNT
statement, the report warned: “The implications in terms of lost jobs, lost revenue to the government and lost fisheries resources is in the tens of millions of dollars…This is a serious threat to national security and economic growth.” In this vein, the BNT congratulated both the Royal Bahamas Defence Force and the judiciary following a “landmark ruling” earlier this month by Magistrate Kara Turnquest where she levied fines of nearly $3m against foreign poachers. “This is a landmark win for fisheries resources
and the BNT congratulates the RBDF and the judiciary for bringing the case to court and supporting strong enforcement of the fisheries regulations,” the statement read. On July 8, 46 Dominican poachers were arrested by the RBDF. Approximately 33,000 pounds of fishery products were confiscated from the Dominican vessel. On August 10, all poachers changed their pleas from not guilty to guilty. Magistrate Turnquest fined each $53,000 and a previous offender was fined $100,000. The poaching vessel’s captain was also
convicted of two additional charges relating to possession of weaponry and sentenced to a total of 30 months in prison. Eric Carey, BNT executive director, said these fines “send a clear message” that the Bahamas is very serious about the issue of poaching. BNT President Janet Johnson also said the organisation supports Agriculture and Marine Resources Minister Michael Pintard’s comments that the government “intends to send a strong message to poachers by increasing penalties including stiffer fines
and imprisonment.” In the statement, the BNT said as the manager of national parks, the organisation is a “strong advocate of sustainable fishery practices.” “Part of ensuring that we will have fish for the future is protecting our territorial waters from illegal fishing,” it continued. “Since June there have been a number of Dominican Republic fishing vessels apprehended by the RBDF for fishing illegally in Bahamian waters. “The fishermen have been charged with possession of crawfish caught
during the closed season, prohibited apparatus, undersized grouper, and several other violations of Bahamian fishery regulations. Those that pled not guilty have been remanded to custody until their trials. “BNT applauds the RBDF for their valiant efforts and feels confident that with the new assets, and their plans to utilise other tools such as drones, the dedicated and committed men and women of the RBDF will bring this scourge of poaching under control,” the statement added.
BAHAMIAN BAND OF BROTHERS UNITES AS NEW FRATERNITY BRANCH CHARTERED
KAPPA Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc chartered its first international undergraduate chapter on Saturday at University of The Bahamas with the Rho Mu Chapter. IT was a historic day on the campus of the University of The Bahamas on Saturday, as Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated chartered its first international undergraduate chapter. After 107 years of existence, the organisation officially established its presence on a college/university campus outside of the United States through the Rho Mu Chapter. Thomas L Battles Jr is the fraternity’s “grand
polemarch” and heads the organisation, which has over 700 chapters and 150,000 members worldwide. Mr Battles as well as other executives of the divine nine fraternity were in town for the occasion. He said, “It’s great for the fraternity and I think it’s great for the community and the university to have Kappa Alpha Psi on campus. “This is history, our first international undergraduate chapter. It’s a good season
for us where we’re stepping up to ensure undergraduates have a voice on campus, through Greek life.” University of The Bahamas finance major and Kappa Alpha Psi member Dominic Parker will head the chapter on the campus. “It’s been a long time coming and we feel great, because we worked really hard to make this a reality,” the Rho Mu polemarch said. “We have a lot we want to do in the community, from a scholarship programme
to just helping to direct the younger generation of Bahamians along the path to success.” The fraternity has functioned in The Bahamas since 1973 through its Bahamas Alumni Chapter, now led by Quinton C Lightbourne, who said he’s happy to see history made for the fraternity locally. “This is most definitely one of my biggest accomplishments as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi,” he said. “With the hard work,
dedication and support from all of the brothers in The Bahamas we made this dream a reality. As we continue pushing ahead we plan on expanding and doing our part to make communities better throughout the Bahamas.” The fraternity celebrates achievement in every field of human endeavour and has well-known members who have made an impact globally. Christopher Cross serves as the junior grand
vice-polemarch for the organisation and flew to Nassau for the ceremony, held in UB’s library. He said, “This is great. The vision for this chapter started many decades ago and to see it finally get to here is amazing. There are a lot of great brothers here in the Bahamas and I’m glad that Kappa Alpha Psi now has an undergraduate presence in this country to be a presence among black Greek organisations on the islands.”
‘DR MINNIS’ HYPOCRISY IS SIMPLY STAGGERING’ from page one
A court injunction is currently in place blocking the evictions pending a court hearing. “Because we are one Bahamas,” Dr Minnis said, “and because we are committed to social justice, we are removing shanty towns, a long-standing problem successive governments failed to address in a comprehensive manner. “Last year, my administration set up a large task force carefully planned for the removal of shanty towns so that we can better assimilate the residents of these areas, and help to improve the quality of life of residents. “We have been careful to address this issue in a comprehensive, careful, and compassionate manner. When (I) spoke to the league of Haitian pastors some months ago, I told them that our aim is to improve the lives of all those affected by what we are doing.” However, Rights Bahamas (RB) said “there is no such thing as a ‘comprehensive, careful and compassionate’ way to forcibly evict someone from their home and relocate them against their will. This is brute force and coercion, pure and simple.” The advocacy group added: “The government can try to sugarcoat this matter all it likes; it will not change the fact that what they are seeking to do constitutes a gross
PRIME Minister Dr Hubert Minnis. violation of people’s fundamental human rights under the constitution. “These people do not want to be forced to live somewhere else, they do not want the authorities to break up their close knit communities, built over generations through mutual help and support. They do not want to be forced to live among strangers. And no one, the government included, has the right to arbitrarily force them to do so. “Dr Minnis’ claim that the conditions in Haitian ethnic communities necessitate their destruction is the epitome of duplicitousness. The government’s own white paper on Over-theHill reform acknowledges that the same sanitary, infrastructure, construction
and land title issues exist in traditional Bahamian communities, but these are not slated for demolition. Instead, they are to be improved and rehabilitated. Why the double standard? Why only those of Haitian ethnicity have their homes destroyed? It can only be a case of discrimination based on ethnicity. That is a grave violation of the most fundamental rights enshrined in our constitution and no amount of false rhetoric or fake compassion can justify or excuse it.” On August 5, the Supreme Court ordered the government and utility providers to halt any planned service disconnections or evictions in shanty towns pending a judicial review of the Minnis administration’s policy to eradicate those communities. Supreme Court Justice Cheryl Grant-Thompson granted the interlocutory injunction just days ahead of the government’s August 10 deadline during a telephone conference with human rights attorney Fred Smith, QC, and Attorney General Carl Bethel. Mr Bethel later told the Senate the government has hired a team of highpowered lawyers headed by Harvey Tynes, QC, to take on Mr Smith and his team in the matter. The government has maintained that the majority of shanty town dwellers in New Providence are residing on Crown land designated for farming and therefore they have no legal right to be there.
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Novie - deep down and soulful, on stage and off F
OR many years, she was a lead singer in the popular local band “Visage”. She has that signature voice you know the moment you hear it – it’s soul stirring, deep and meaningful. A few years ago, she became a solo artist and continues to make her mark, not only as one of The Bahamas’ beloved entertainers, but as an educator who guides hundreds of Bahamian students in the field of music. Sonovia Ovette Pierre, affectionately known as “Novie” has toured all over The Bahamas and around the world, singing and taking Bahamian culture with her. She has a commanding stage presence and an approachable nature. She always seems to be smiling and laughing and truly enjoying life. Her popular songs are often played at parties and on the radio, including “Profilin”, which adequately describes a common Bahamian regatta experience, “Stray Dog”, “Wrong Finger” and “Still Need a Man”, which reminds women to value men, no matter how independent they are. To know Novie is to know that she isn’t putting on. She is the same on and off stage – boldly approaching life’s goals and challenges and doing it with a big smile. I have known her for most of my life. But when I sat down with Novie for this Face to Face, I learned even more and became even more inspired by her life and her journey. Novie was born to Barbara Jean Thurston and Ovide Pierre, but when she was just two days old, her grandmother Christina Clarke-Thurston took her home from the hospital and raised her from that day on until the day of her death. She felt Barbara Jean was too young - 18 at the time - and so Novie became her baby. This created a bond that everyone around them could see as she put her spirit into this child. That spirit was one of a hard-working, Godfearing woman and a great cook and baker with such an immense love for family that many called her home theirs as well. She first attended Mable Walker Primary School, then SC McPherson before graduating from AF Adderley. During these years, Novie’s life was filled with church activities as her grandmother, a Pentecostal devotee, attended church almost every day of the week. Church life was Bible study, foot washing services, night watch services and concerts. She went on to the College of The Bahamas, followed by Florida Atlantic University where she attained a Bachelor’s in music education with emphasis on voice, pedagogy, choral conducting and arranging. At Vandercook College, Novie attained a Master’s Degree in music education and music composition. Her college education was funded in several ways. She won the Miss Bahamas Talented Teen competition with Mrs Annie Russell which opened many doors, including a four-year scholarship from City Markets, and she also won scholarships from the Lyford Cay
Face to Face
By FELICITY INGRAHAM
Foundation and the Nassau Music Society. Music was always in her life. Not only because of her deep exposure in church, but because her uncle John Thurston is a noted musician. “We always had a piano or some kind of instrument in the house,” she recalled. “Uncle John was the musician, always singing and Uncle Jimmy (his twin brother James, now deceased) was the intellectual who always helped me with my homework. Rehearsal was always going on in the house. Uncle John was always practicing or writing songs and musicians were always in and out of the house.” Great artists like Abigail Charlow, Snooky, Falcon Watson and many others were always in and out of Mama Cynthia’s home and were well-known to Novie, but it was not until she became an adult that she understood the importance of these musicians and their contributions to society. “I was no more than four years old when he played something on the piano and said when I come back, I want you to be able to play it… when he came back, I could play it. I was four years old when he gave me this music. I don’t know how I was able to look at the music and read it, but I did. The song was “You Light Up My Life”. I used to sing in church and Uncle John would play the guitar. When I was born and I came home from the hospital, I heard music.” Her first formal music lesson was with Paul and Tanya Hanna at the age of ten and for two years they would come to her grandmother’s house and taught her practical piano lessons. Her Uncle John funded the lessons and served like a father figure to her, as he and Uncle James were the only men of the house. He went on to be married to my aunt, Italia and have children of his own but, before this time, Novie had the opportunity to be nurtured by him with a talent that has brought her this far in life. Her grandmother would always encourage her to sing in church and would “brag and boast” about her Novie. Cynthia’s elder daughters, Era Henry and Althea Sands were already married and out of the home, and her Aunt Eleanor Woodside had moved to Florida. Novie and her grandmother were so close that from just days after her birth until she was 18 and went abroad to further her studies, she slept in the back of the bed behind her grandmother. “It was scary at first being away from grammy,” she confided. “I used to travel with her to visit Aunt Eleanor, but when I went to college,
it was my first time on my own fending for myself and being in a bed by myself. I begged Aunt Eleanor’s daughter (Bernette) to come and stay with me and she did so for the first weekend before classes started. I will never forget it. I left a couple of days before a major hurricane hit The Bahamas. The Free National Movement had just won the government for the first time, just before the hurricane hit.” It was August 19, 1992, when the hurricane resulted in Novie being stuck in Florida where she had a chance to stay with her Aunt Eleanor’s family and ask Bernette to come. “I was on my own for the first time in my life. I had joined Visage band in 1992 but I was much more shy than I am now. Even in COB and at the Dundas Centre for the Performing Arts, I was sheltered. I was under the tutelage of greats like Pauline Glasby, Audrey Dean-Wright, Cleophas Adderley, Keva Bethel and Winston Saunders (a pioneer in Bahamian theatre).” Novie, however, adjusted quickly, remaining focused because of the immense obligations on her
shoulders. Her grandmother was not working and she had to work to take care of herself while maintaining a GPA that would meet scholarships standards. Novie recalls never really having a college social life because every weekend, she flew home to Nassau to perform with Visage to make her money before flying back on a Sunday evening to get ready for the next week of school. At the time, Novie would pay for a shared taxi to return to school from the airport. That taxi was a limo, so her fellow students always thought she was living the superstar life. But for her, it was a real commitment that included studying every spare moment she could, working hard to pay for her
additional expenses, and giving up the fun and frolic that other college students knew. Novie even gave up her summers and travelled extensively with the Bahamas National Youth Choir and Cleophas Adderley, performing with Visage, led by Obie Pindling who pushed her every step of the way. Two years after heading off on her own, her grandmother died: “It was the hardest semester for me. I was taking 18 credits that semester and I had made the Dean’s list. I was 22 years old and it was hard for me.” Novie put her efforts completely into the band, the choir and into
FROM left, Novie’s grandmother, Christina Clarke-Thurston, Novie in primary school and at her senior recital in 1992.
SONOVIA Pierre who recently won a Bahamas Icon Award for her role as Goddess Asaka in the Shakespear in Paradise show Once On This Island. She is wearing a Cardell McClam design. Right, preparing for her role as Rafiki in The Lion King at Houston Museum of Fine Arts. mentoring a whole lot of weight and girls for my life became pain.” Miss Eventually, she found her Bahamas way, started working out, Talented getting fit and picking up Teen, performing gigs. She perand formed for Carnival events went on and participated in music without masters, where she released a social her own singles. life all Novie faced her health these challenges boldly when in years. December 2016, she had After major surgery followed by graduatanother in December 2017. ing she At the same time, she conbecame tinued to be an adoptive a full-time mother to three girls, Ruth, music teacher, Donella and Diana. starting out at Today, Novie seems to Uriah McPhee have a new lease on life. Primary School. She recently released the She spent nine song “Born to Love this years teaching at LW Country”. The song was Young high school before inspired by three blind stubeing transferred to CH dents she taught from the Reeves, then CC Sweeting Salvation Army School for and Albury Sayle before the Blind. becoming a part-time pro“These boys just loved fessor at COB, now the music and I wrote this song University of The Bahamas through the experience of where she is today. a blind child, which is why In 2012, Novie decided the song says ‘I will lift up to leave Visage and launch my head and feel the sun her solo career. through the branches of the “I had to walk away and Lignum Vitae and hear the that was the hardest thing horn from the boat coming to do,” she said. in the harbour,” she said. “I basically found myself “This is what national in Visage. I started at age pride should be about; 19 and left when I was being proud to be a Baha41. I didn’t have Obie as mian whether you are black the cushion anymore. He or white, disabled or disbooked the gigs and did figured, I wrote it for them everything; now I have to because I feel they have a fend for myself. In the first voice. We need to forget year after leaving I went color and party politics. into a bit of depression, I The country is broken and was having health problems needs to be fixed. We must and it was getting progres- remember we are Bahasively worse. I think I lost mian and love who we are my way for a while. I put on and fix ourselves.”
THE TRIBUNE
Tuesday, August 21, 2018, PAGE 11
CLEANING UP OVER-THE-HILL THE third phase of the Over-the-Hill programme’s clean up campaign took place over the weekend, with 80 people and 20 heavy duty companies working to remove litter in the Nassau Street and Collins Avenue areas. The effort saw
cooperation between the Department of Environmental Health, which managed heavy equipment and drop offs to the landfill, the Beaches and Park Authority, which managed landscaping, and Bethel Baptist Church which provided lunch for staff.
CLEAN-up crews in action Over-the-Hill at the weekend.
DIESEL LEAK HITS MARINA AT GEORGE TOWN, EXUMA
SOME of the diesel and debris in the water at George Town, Exuma, yesterday, with a containment boom deployed.
PORT officials in George Town, Exuma, yesterday reported a diesel leak at the marina. The Ministry of Transport last night said that the leak was by the operators of Emerald Bay Marina located in Farmers Hill, Exuma. It was further discovered that a diesel fuel storage tank line managed by Sun Oil had sprung a leak on Sunday, resulting in approximately 3,600-3,800 gallons of diesel fuel escaping into
the waters of the marina. Officials from the Port Department, Department of Environmental Health and representatives from Sun Oil in Nassau were at the scene last night engaged in recovery efforts. Containment booms were placed to prevent any further impact on the neighboring environment or marine life. Port officials reported that the situation was under control and that recovery efforts were ongoing.
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MEASLES CASES ON THE RISE IN EUROPE BERLIN Associated Press
THE World Health Organization says the number of measles cases in Europe jumped sharply during the first six months of 2018 and at least 37 people have died. The UN agency’s European office said Monday more than 41,000 measles cases were reported in the region during the first half of the year — more than in all 12-month periods so far this decade. The previous highest annual total was 23,927 cases in 2017. A year earlier, only 5,273 cases were reported. The agency said half — some 23,000 cases — this year occurred in Ukraine, where an insurgency backed by Russia has been fighting the government for four years in a conflict that has killed over 10,000 people. France, Georgia, Greece, Italy, Russia and Serbia also had more than 1,000 measles infections each this year. Measles can be prevented with a vaccine, but health vaccination rates of at least 95 percent are needed to prevent epidemics.
EAGLES SOAR AHEAD OF JACKSON’S THRILLER NEW YORK Associated Press
THE Eagles’ greatest hits album has moonwalked past Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to become history’s best-selling album of all-time. The Recording Industry Association of America told The Associated Press on Monday that the Eagles’ album — “Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975” — is now certified 38x platinum, which means sales and streams of the album have reached 38 million copies. The album was released in 1976 and pushes Jackson’s “Thriller,” which is 33x platinum, to second place. RIAA also said that the Eagles’ “Hotel California,” released in 1977, is now 26x platinum and makes it the third best-selling album of all-time.
A WOMAN walks past a bus allegedly set on fire by drug traffickers in the Bonsucesso neighborhood, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, yesterday. Since February, the military has been in charge of security in the state of Rio de Janeiro, which is struggling to curb a spike in violence. Photo: Silvia Izquierdo/AP
12 DEAD IN RIO DE JANEIRO SHOOTOUTS RIO DE JANEIRO Associated Press
AT LEAST 11 suspects and one soldier died during shootouts with military personnel and police in greater Rio de Janeiro yesterday as violence erupted in several areas of the city. The direct confrontations between soldiers and armed traffickers also marked a deepening of the
military’s role in Rio’s security. Since the military was put in charge of the state’s security earlier this year, soldiers have mostly played supporting roles to police during operations, such as securing perimeters or setting up checkpoints. Yesterday, soldiers were clearly in the lead. “Our goal is only to make arrests. If there are deaths, the criminals are to blame,” Carlos Cinelli, a military spokesman, told reporters while
adding that military personnel came under fire during operations that began at 4.30am. “The soldiers have a right to defend themselves.” Cinelli told reporters that five suspects were killed and another ten were arrested when soldiers stormed the neighborhoods of Mare, Complexo do Alemao and Penha. In a press note later in the afternoon, the military command said one soldier died and another
was injured in the operations. Cinelli said the operations, which included more than 4,000 military personnel, were aimed at finding wanted traffickers in the areas. The operation netted four pistols, two grenades and 440 pounds (200 kilograms) of marijuana paste, he said. Brazilian news site G1 reported that many residents in the areas stayed at home, skipping work and school.
Flint health director to face involuntary manslaughter trial FLINT, Michigan Associated Press A JUDGE yesterday ordered Michigan’s health director to stand trial for involuntary manslaughter in two deaths linked to Legionnaires’ disease in the Flint area, the highest-ranking official to face criminal charges as a result of the city’s tainted water scandal. Nick Lyon is accused of failing to issue a timely alert about the outbreak. District Court Judge David Goggins said deaths likely could have been prevented if the outbreak had been publicly known. He said keeping the public in the dark was “corrupt”. Goggins found probable cause for a trial in Genesee County court, a legal standard that isn’t as high as beyond a reasonable doubt. Lyon also faces a charge of misconduct in office. When the judge announced his
NICK LYON, director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, listens as Genesee District Judge David J Goggins gives his decision. decision, a woman in the gallery said, “Yes, yes, yes.” “It’s a long way from over,” Lyon told The Associated Press. He declined further comment. Some experts have blamed Legionnaires’ on Flint’s water, which wasn’t properly treated when it was drawn from the Flint River in 2014 and 2015. Legionella bacteria
can emerge through misting and cooling systems, triggering a severe form of pneumonia, especially in people with weakened immune systems. At least 90 cases of Legionnaires’ occurred in Genesee County, including 12 deaths. More than half of the people had a common thread: They spent time at McLaren Hospital, which was on the Flint water system. The outbreak was announced by Gov Rick Snyder and Lyon in January 2016, although Lyon concedes that he knew that cases were being reported many months earlier. He is director of the Health and Human Services Department. Nonetheless, he denies wrongdoing. Lyon’s attorneys said there was much speculation about the exact cause of Legionnaires’ and not enough solid information to share earlier with the public. The investigation by the state attorney general’s office is part of a
larger probe into how Flint’s water system became contaminated when the city used Flint River water for 18 months. The water wasn’t treated to reduce corrosion. As a result, lead leached from old pipes. An additional 14 current or former state and local officials have been charged with crimes, either related to Legionnaires’ or lead in the water. Four agreed to misdemeanor plea deals; the other cases are moving slowly. “Normally we don’t see government officials accused of manslaughter based on what they didn’t do,” said Peter Henning, a professor at Wayne State University law school in Detroit. “That does make it an unusual case, and it will make government officials be much more cautious. Maybe that’s the message here.” Defence attorney John Bursch said the judge’s decision was “mystifying”.
BLACKBEARD’S DEATH ‘AN UNLAWFUL ACT’ OCRACOKE, North Carolina Associated Press
Death Notice
Harry B. Sands died peacefully at home on Wednesday, August 15th, 2018 Words cannot do justice to so loved and wonderful a man. We will miss you forever, forget you never and love you always. Your Family
AN independent historian says his research shows the pirate Blackbeard’s death in North Carolina nearly 300 years ago took place after unlawful actions by an overzealous Virginia lieutenant governor. The Virginian-Pilot reports Blackbeard could have received a pardon from the king of England, but Lt Gov Alexander Spotswood had Blackbeard hunted down first, according to Kevin Duffus. Duffus describes himself as a North Carolina research historian, author and documentary filmmaker. His writings focus on the North Carolina coastal region, including the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and shipwrecks in the Atlantic Ocean. The Associated Press was unable Thursday to reach other historians who study Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard, for perspective on Duffus’ theory. The 300th anniversary of Blackbeard’s death will be November 22. After combing through Royal Navy records and colonial documents, Duffus said he believes Spotswood sent Lt Robert Maynard to North Carolina to capture or kill the pirate to boost his own political standing. Spotswood lacked the authority to send the Royal Navy to an inland waterway in North Carolina or interfere a neighboring colony’s affairs “without invitation,”
Duffus said. Evidence indicated that North Carolina Gov Charles Eden was collaborating with Blackbeard. In 1718, colonial leaders fed up with attacks sought to rid the waters of pirates and Blackbeard was one of dozens of pirates killed or hanged that summer and fall. Benjamin Hornigold, Blackbeard’s mentor, accepted the King’s pardon and became a trusted enforcer for Woodes Rogers, the first royal governor of the Bahamas, said Kim Kenyon, a conservator with the Queen Anne’s Revenge Project. Rogers captured and hanged ten pirates in a matter of months. The estimated 2,000 pirates operating off the southeastern coast and the Bahamas were reduced to 200 by 1726, she said. Most simply quit, but others got pardons. King George I pardoned pirates in 1717 and offered rewards to crew members who turned in captains, according to an account by the Queen Anne’s Revenge project. He planned another pardon in December 1718. Spotswood and other officials knew of the approaching second pardon, but he pursued Blackbeard before it arrived, Duffus said. After hearing Blackbeard had run aground, Maynard came down the Pamlico Sound. Blackbeard escaped and was anchored off Ocracoke Island, the primary access point from the Atlantic Ocean to the sound and inland towns. But Duffus said Blackbeard was not
there to attack ships as is commonly believed. “He never pirated a single ship passing by Ocracoke,” he said. Maynard approached with no flags, no guns showing and no uniforms on his 60 men, making Blackbeard believe the vessels were merchant ships. But Maynard suddenly turned left toward the pirates, and likely raised his flag. In records, witnesses recall Blackboard calling out: “If you do not meddle with us we will not meddle with you.” “You can see by our colors, we are not pirates,” Maynard said. “It’s you we want and we will take you dead or alive.” Blackbeard could surrender and hope Spotswood would not execute him before the expected pardon, or fight. He fired on the approaching ships, killing sailors, damaging the Ranger. Maynard’s ships ran aground, but released ballast to get afloat again, according to an account by the state Department of Cultural Resources. To trick Blackbeard into close battle, Maynard on the Jane sent his men below deck and Blackbeard boarded, thinking he had killed most of the crew. Ten pirates were killed in just six minutes, including Blackbeard. Blackbeard was shot five times and struck with a sword several times, including one blow that nearly severed his head. Maynard finished the job.